Report for EC: Using millimeter bands for the Unions 5G ecosystem

The objective of the study was to explore the state of play and the prospects for the use of the mm-waves frequency bands for the 5G ecosystem in the Union, while taking into account also the prospective use of these bands in other geographical regions, in view of the ITU World Radiocommunication Conference 2019 (WRC 19).

In line with the policy priorities of the European Union, the study has explored the potential services that would make use of mm-wave bands and their respective demand, with a focus on the 24.25-27.5 GHz ('26 GHz') ‘pioneer’ band in order to strengthen the prospects of using this band for 5G. In addition, synergies with the use of the adjacent '28 GHz' band for fixed terrestrial and/or satellite services have been explored such as the potential development of hybrid terrestrial-satellite systems. The study has also analysed the co-existence scenarios between incumbent (mainly satellite) and terrestrial 5G services in the 26 GHz band and assessed the prospects for the evolution of the business environment alongside the progressive deployment of terrestrial 5G services. It has addressed business-related and regulatory aspects (such as authorisation) and assessed the potential health effects due to exposure to the electromagnetic fields (EMF) of mm-wave spectrum.

The findings of the Study have contributed to assessing the impacts of the Commission implementing decision for designating the 26 GHz pioneer band for wireless broadband electronic communications services in the Union under harmonised technical conditions suitable for 5G. This measure is a follow-up of to the 5G Action Plan (5GAP) and the European Electronic Communications Code. Furthermore, the results of the study will contribute to the assessment of opportunities of usage of other mm-wave bands for electronic communications and other relevant services, in line with the 5GAP and the opinion of the Radio Spectrum Policy Group (RSPG).